Vented eaves closure

ABSTRACT

A method is provided for installing a ventilated eaves closure and tile support apparatus along the eaves of a roof. A vented eaves closure apparatus is disposed along the eaves to support the first course of roof tiles at a desired pitch. The apparatus provides support, ventilation, and drainage, while also providing a barrier to wind-driven precipitation, bird nesting, and animal invasion. The apparatus includes an array of openings configured to allow drainage and facilitate the flow of air beneath the tiles and throughout the air space between the roof deck and the tiles. The method and apparatus can be adapted to fit a variety of roof types and roof tiles having different sizes, shapes, and profiles.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.12/198,637, filed Aug. 26, 2008, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 11/079,920, filed Mar. 14, 2005 (now U.S. Pat. No.7,424,790), which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.10/143,566, filed May 10, 2002 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,941,706), whichclaims the benefit of Provisional patent application entitled, “VentedEaves Closure,” Application Ser. No. 60/290,142, filed May 10, 2001,which is incorporated herein by reference, together with any and allattachments and exhibits thereto. The full benefit and priority of allapplications are claimed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of roofing tileinstallation. More particularly, the invention provides a method forinstalling and supporting the lowermost or first course of roof tilesalong the eaves and an apparatus for supporting the roof tiles at adesired pitch, allowing drainage, promoting ventilation, and preventinganimal infiltration.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The installation of a tile roof involves a variety of technicalchallenges and problems not encountered during the installation of atraditional shingle roof. Traditional shingles are relatively thin andcan be placed almost flat onto the roof decking in overlapping rows. Incontrast, roofing tiles tend to be thicker and more rigid, and do nottend to lie as flat when overlapping one another. Thus, roofing tilesrequire special consideration and handling, particularly when installingthe first course along the eaves.

In addition to flat-shaped tiles, modern roof tiles are made in avariety of sizes and shapes to complement different architecturalstyles. For example, a traditional S-shaped tile might be used forSpanish-style architecture, while a W-shaped tile might be used for aMediterranean-style project. The multitude of shapes available todayincreases the complexity of the technical challenges and problemsencountered when installing a tile roof.

The installation of roof tiles typically begins with the step of layinga first row or course of tiles along the eaves of a roof. While theedges of the upper courses of tile will rest upon the next lowestcourse, the lowermost edge of the first course of tile has no tile uponwhich to rest. Thus, the lowermost edge of the first course of tilesmust be elevated above the roof decking to the desired angle or pitchfor proper installation.

Various methods and devices have been used for elevating the lowermostedge of the first course of tile, but some of these methods and devicescan create new problems both during and after installation. Suchproblems include improper or inaccurate tile pitch, lack of universalfit among tiles of different shapes and sizes, unattractive appearance,poor drainage, poor ventilation, inadequate structural support, poorresistance to wind and weather, and increased vulnerability to birdnesting and animal infiltration.

Adequate drainage and ventilation is critical to the proper installationof a tile roof. Drainage is critical because the accumulation of waterbehind and under the tiles can lead to serious and expensive problemssuch as standing water, ice dams in cold climates, wood rot, roofleakage, and structural failure. Ventilation is critical to reduce heattransfer through the attic space and into the occupied living space.Also, a tile roof creates an air space between the tile and the roofdeck which acts as a thermal barrier. Creating a flow of air throughthis air space can help dissipate accumulated heat.

Bird nesting and animal infiltration represent a significant problem forvarious tile shapes having what is known as a high profile. Thecurvature of a high-profile tile such as the traditional S-shapedSpanish tile creates a large space beneath the tile, making the eavesand roof vulnerable to bird nesting and animal infiltration. Similarly,the curvature of lower-profile tiles such as the W-shaped Mediterraneantiles also create open spaces along the eaves which require closure.

The prior art closure devices have been plagued by problems such as poorventilation and interference with water shedding. One such prior artconfiguration requires the installation of a new, tall fascia boardalong the eaves to support the lowermost edge of the first course oftile. The fascia board creates a water dam at the edge of the roof, so ametal flashing must be installed to allow water to flow over the board.

Another field method involves the pouring of a strip of mortar along theeaves, with weep holes drilled or formed through it to allow waterdrainage. Another method in use involves the installation of metal eavesclosure strips, with additional flashing and drilled weep holes fordrainage, such as the one disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,418,505 issued toThompson on Dec. 6, 1983. Although weep holes allow some water toescape, they offer little or no ventilation of the roof. Although thesefield methods and devices may have their own advantages, they illustratethe need for systems that provide improved drainage and ventilation inaddition to providing closure and accurate tile pitch.

Thus, there remains a need for a method and apparatus for elevating thefirst course of tile that will permit water to flow safely off the roofand promote adequate ventilation, while assuring proper tile elevationand support, and adequate resistance to animal and environmentalinfiltration. Such a method and apparatus should accomplish these goalsin a reliable, durable, attractive, low-maintenance, and cost-effectivemanner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above and other needs are met by the present invention whichprovides a method and apparatus for installing and supporting a firstcourse of roof tiles along the eaves of a roof while providing closureof the eaves and ventilation of the roof.

Generally described, the present invention provides an eaves closuresystem for a tile roof. The tile roof is characterized by a roofdecking, an eaves, and a first course of roof tiles along the eaves. Theeaves closure system includes a vented eaves closure having a baseadjacent said eaves and a riser façade extending upwardly from said baseand having sufficient height to support said first course at a desiredpitch. The eaves closure system also includes an array of openingsthrough said vented eaves closure configured to permit drainage andpromote ventilation.

In one aspect, the top edge of the riser façade is sized and shaped tofill the space between the eaves and the bottom profile of the tiles.The top edge may include a rim disposed along its length.

In one embodiment the vented eaves closure also includes a rear riserextending from the top edge of said riser façade toward said base. Thevented eaves closure may also include a skirt panel extending from saidrear riser in a direction generally parallel to said base.

In one embodiment, the openings in the eaves closure system pass throughsaid riser façade only. In another, the entire vented eaves closure isconstructed of a rigid screen and the array of openings form a regularand repeating pattern throughout.

In another aspect, the invention provides an apparatus called a ventedeaves closure for a first course of roof tiles along an eaves of a roof.The vented eaves closure includes a base adjacent said eaves, a riserfaçade extending upwardly from said base and having sufficient height tosupport said first course at a desired pitch, and an array of openingsconfigured to permit drainage and promote ventilation.

In one aspect, the top edge of the riser façade is sized and shaped tofill the space between the eaves and the bottom profile of the tiles.The top edge may include a rim disposed along its length.

In one embodiment the vented eaves closure also includes a rear riserextending from the top edge of said riser façade toward said base. Thevented eaves closure may also include a skirt panel extending from saidrear riser in a direction generally parallel to said base.

In one embodiment, the openings in the eaves closure system pass throughsaid riser façade only. In another, the entire vented eaves closure isconstructed of a rigid screen and the array of openings form a regularand repeating pattern throughout.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for ventilating andclosing a tile roof. The method steps include providing a vented eavesclosure having a base, a riser façade, and an array of openings;attaching the base to said roof decking adjacent said eaves; and, layingsaid first course atop said vented eaves closure. The method may alsoinclude forming said vented eaves closure from a rigid screen having aregular and repeating pattern of openings.

In one embodiment, the method also includes the further step ofselecting said vented eaves closure from a plurality of stock closuressuch that said riser façade is sized and shaped to fill a space definedby said eaves and said bottom profile.

In another embodiment, the method also includes the further step ofshaping said riser façade until its size and shape will fill a spacedefined by said eaves and said bottom profile.

In another embodiment, the method also includes the further step ofselecting said vented eaves closure from a plurality of stock closures,each having a blank riser façade. The next step in this embodimentincludes shaping said blank riser façade until its size and shape willfill a space defined by said eaves and said bottom profile.

In another aspect, the invention provides a system for ventilating andclosing a tile roof. The system includes a plurality of partiallyoverlapping roof tiles, an eaves closure installed adjacent said eavesand having a base and a riser extending upwardly from said base to saidbottom profile, a cavity defined by said roof decking, said roof tiles,said eaves closure, and said peak, and an array of openings through saideaves closure sized and shaped to promote a circulation of air withinsaid cavity. The system may also include an air mover positioned to drawair through said cavity.

In another embodiment, the system may also include an array of ventsthrough said roof decking positioned at intervals to promote acirculation of air beneath said cavity.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method of fabricating aneaves closure for a tile roof. The method includes the steps ofselecting a sheet of material having sufficient strength to support saidfirst course of roof tiles and sufficient ductility to withstandbending, treating said sheet to improve its resistance to corrosion inthe expected use environment, cutting a portion from said sheetaccording to a pattern, said pattern sized and shaped to encompass saideaves closure, and bending one or more segments of said portionaccording to said pattern.

In one embodiment, the method may also include creating an array ofopenings through said sheet at one or more locations such that saideaves closure after fabrication will permit drainage and promoteventilation.

In another aspect of the invention, the eaves closure system maycomprise two pieces, a vented eaves closure and a vented profiledfiller, along with an array of openings. The vented eaves closureincludes a base and a riser façade extending upwardly from said base toan upper edge. The vented profiled filler includes a tongue areaconfigured to connect to said vented eaves closure and a profiled areasized and shaped to fill a space defined by said upper edge and saidbottom profile.

In one embodiment, the vented eaves closure may also include a groovealong said upper edge of the riser façade. The groove is sized andshaped to receive said tongue area of the profiled filler.

In another embodiment, the profiled area of the vented profiled fillermay also include a rim disposed along a top edge of said profiled area.

In one embodiment, the openings in the eaves closure system pass throughsaid riser façade only. In another, the entire vented eaves closureand/or the vented profiled filler is constructed of a rigid screen andthe array of openings form a regular and repeating pattern throughout.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of providingventilation and closure to a tile roof. The method steps include:providing a vented eaves closure having a base, a riser façade, and anarray of openings; providing a vented profiled filler sized and shapedto fill a space defined by said upper edge and said bottom profile;attaching said base to said roof decking adjacent said eaves; connectingsaid vented profiled filler to said vented eaves closure; and layingsaid first course atop said vented eaves closure. The method may alsoincludes the steps of providing a groove along said upper edge of thevented eaves closure and inserting the vented profiled filler into thegroove.

In one embodiment, the method also includes shaping said vented profiledfiller until its size and shape will fill a space defined by said upperedge and said bottom profile.

In another embodiment, the method may also include selecting said ventedprofiled filler from a plurality of stock fillers having a blankprofile, and shaping said blank profile until the size and shape of saidvented profiled filler will fill a space defined by said upper edge andsaid bottom profile.

It is a principal object of the present invention to provide a ventedeaves closure apparatus to support the first course of roof tiles alongthe eaves of a roof at a desired pitch.

It is a further object of this invention to facilitate the circulationof air underneath the roof tiles and throughout the eaves, attic, androof structure. It is a related object of this invention to minimize theheat transfer from the roof tiles, through the attic space, and into theliving space.

It is another object of this invention to facilitate the shedding ofwater off the roof from underneath the roof tiles without anyappreciable damming or ponding.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a ventedeaves closure apparatus to prevent the infiltration of wind-drivenprecipitation.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a vented eavesclosure apparatus to prevent bird nesting and other animal invasionthrough the eaves.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a ventedeaves closure apparatus to fit a variety of tiles having differentsizes, shapes, and profiles.

These and other objects are accomplished by the method and apparatusdisclosed and will become apparent from the following detaileddescription of a preferred embodiment in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings in which like numerals designate like elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an eaves closure system according to afirst embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a vented eaves closure according to thefirst embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of an eaves closure system taken along line3-3 of FIG. 1, through the valley of a high-profile roof tile, accordingto the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of an eaves closure system taken along line4-4 of FIG. 1, through the peak of a high-profile roof tile, accordingto the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an eaves closure system according to asecond embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a vented eaves closure according to thesecond embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of an eaves closure system taken along line7-7 of FIG. 5, through the valley of a high-profile roof tile, accordingto the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of an eaves closure system taken along line8-8 of FIG. 5, through the peak of a high-profile roof tile, accordingto the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an eaves closure system according to athird embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a vented eaves closure according to thethird embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a sectional view of an eaves closure system taken along line11-11 of FIG. 9, according to the third embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an eaves closure system according to amodification of a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a sectional view of an eaves closure system taken along line13-13 of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a variety of high-profile roof tiles.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a variety of low-profile roof tiles.

FIG. 16 is a sectional view of an eaves closure and roof ventilationsystem according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is now made to the figures, in which like elements indicatelike elements throughout the several views.

Preparation of a typical roof to receive roofing tiles usually involvesthe installation of a generally planar roof decking, a waterproofunderlayment, and a series of battens at regular intervals to supportthe tiles. The lowermost edge of a sloped roof is called the eaves. Thebattens are typically installed in rows parallel to the eaves. The firstrow or course of roof tiles is installed along the eaves.

A roof tile is generally rectangular in plan view, having a thicknessand a distinct shape in cross-section called a profile. The top andbottom surfaces need not be identical. The top surface can be seen fromabove and is often stylized for a desired appearance, whereas the bottomprofile of a roof tile is typically hidden and may contain specificcontours and features not apparent after installation.

Modern roof tiles are made in a wide variety of shapes and sizes tocomplement different architectural styles. A traditional Spanish-styleroofing tile that is S-shaped in cross section is known in the industryas a high-profile tile 40. A variety of high-profile tiles 40 are shownin FIG. 14. Flat roofing tiles and shakes are known in the industry aslow-profile tiles 45. A variety of low-profile tiles 45 are shown inFIG. 15.

When the first course of roof tiles is elevated to the desired angle orpitch along the eaves, a space is created between the eaves and thebottom profile of the tile. The several embodiments of the presentinvention provide closure of this space, drainage for the roof, andventilation solutions for both high-profile and low-profile tiles.

A First Embodiment

A first embodiment of the eaves closure system 10 of the presentinvention is shown in FIG. 1. A vented eaves closure 20 is supportingthe first course of high-profile tiles 40 along the eaves 50 of a roof.The roof includes roof decking 70 and a waterproof underlayment 80.

FIG. 2 provides a more detailed perspective view of a vented eavesclosure 20 according to the first embodiment. The vented eaves closure20 includes a base 22 and a riser façade 24 disposed in planar contactwith the base 22. The vented eaves closure 20 is preferably made from asingle sheet of material having an array of openings 90. Preferably, thevented eaves closure 20 is made from a rigid or semi-rigid screen ormeshed wire fabric to promote ventilation and allow drainage. The base22 is placed generally parallel to the roof decking 70 and installedalong the eaves 50 as shown in FIG. 1. The riser façade 24 extendsvertically upward from the base 22 and has a sufficient height tosupport the first course of high-profile roof tiles 40 at a desiredangle or pitch. The area of the riser façade 24 in contact with thebottom profile of the roof tile 40 is called the top edge of the riserfaçade 24.

The vented eaves closure 20 may also include a rim 25 along the top edgeof the riser façade 24. The contour of the rim 25 matches the bottomprofile of the tile 40 in order to provide closure to the eaves 50beneath the tiles, thereby inhibiting weather infiltration and birdnesting and improving the appearance of the eaves 50. The rim 25 alsoadds strength and stability.

Generally, the base 22, the riser façade 24, and the rim 25 if provided,in one embodiment of the present invention, are rectangular sections orpanels disposed at various relative angles and sized to provide supportand closure along the eaves 50. The riser panel (24) is called the riserfaçade 24 because it is typically the most visible panel or face alongthe eaves 50. The riser façade 24 provides not only closure, but also aneat and finished appearance for the tile roof.

For embodiments where the top edge of the riser façade 24 is curved tomatch a high-profile tile 40, such as the one shown in FIG. 1, it may benecessary or advantageous to divide the rim 25 into segments by scoringor cutting the rim 25 at critical places along the top edge. When foldedover, the segments of the rim 25 may overlap one another, particularlyat places where the effective radius of the top edge is small.Alternatively, the material used to construct the vented eaves closure20 and the rim 25 may be flexible enough to allow segments of the rim 25to fold over one another without scoring or cutting the rim 25.

FIG. 3 shows section 3-3, which is taken through the lowest point orvalley of one of the high-profile tiles 40 shown in FIG. 1. An airflow92 passes through the array of openings 90 (not shown) in the ventedeaves closure 20. For clarity, the vented eaves closure 20 appears solidwhen shown in cross section; however, it should be understood that thevented eaves closure 20 includes an array of openings 90 to permitdrainage and facilitate ventilation. In cross section, the positioningof the base 22 relative to the roof decking 70 can be seen. In a typicalapplication, the base 22 is fastened to the roof decking 70. The riserfaçade 24 rises vertically in this embodiment and not perpendicular tothe roof decking 70. It should be noted, however, that placement of theriser façade 24 at other angles is contemplated in order to accommodatetiles of different types, shapes, and sizes. In other embodiments, forexample, a riser façade 24 rising perpendicular to the roof decking 70may be best suited to support the type of tile being installed. When theriser façade 24 is described as extending upwardly from the base 22, itshould be understood that the plane of the riser façade 24 may form anyangle with the roof decking 70 or base 22 that provides sufficientsupport for the roof tiles at the desired pitch.

The optional rim 25 as shown in FIG. 3 extends rearward from the topedge of the riser façade 24 and extends downward at an acute angletoward the base 22 of the vented eaves closure 20. This is not the onlysuitable configuration for a rim 25. In other embodiments, the rim 25may extend forward, along the lower surface of the roof tiles 40. Therim 25 may also extend in a direction that is generally perpendicular tothe riser façade 24. Other rim configurations are contemplated that willprovide the strength and stability to the vented eaves closure 20.

In a typical application, the roof tiles 40 simply rest atop the topedge of the riser façade 24 of the vented eaves closure 20 withoutrequiring an attachment. For certain applications, however, anattachment between one or more tiles and the vented eaves closure 20 maybe preferred or required.

The vented eaves closure 20 may be made of any suitable material for theexpected outdoor environment. Corrosion resistance, long life, andgeneral durability are some of the features desired for such tile roofsupports. In one embodiment, the vented eaves closure 20 is formed ofgalvanized aluminum or steel having a baked-on, enamel coating. Thevented eaves closure 20 may be made from a sheet of rigid screen ormeshed wire fabric of sufficient strength to support the expected loadof the roof tiles 40.

FIG. 4 shows section 4-4, which is taken through the highest point orpeak of one of the high-profile tiles 40 in FIG. 1. An airflow 92 passesthrough the array of openings 90 (not shown) in the vented eaves closure20. The riser façade 24 extends vertically upward from the roof decking70 to the lower surface of the high-profile roof tiles 40. In thisaspect, the vented eaves closure 20 provides complete closure to thearched spaces 41 beneath the roof tiles 40.

A Second Embodiment

A second embodiment of the eaves closure system 10 of the presentinvention is shown in FIG. 5. In this embodiment, the eaves closuresystem 10 includes a vented eaves closure 20 and a vented profiledfiller 30. The vented eaves closure 20, together with the ventedprofiled filler 30, supports the lower edge of the first course of rooftiles 40 and provides closure to the eaves 50.

In this embodiment, the vented eaves closure 20 has a uniform, standardshape that can be used to accept any of a variety ofdifferently-contoured vented profiled fillers 30. As such, the ventedeaves closure 20 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 will have universalapplicability among a wide variety of tile sizes and shapes. The ventedeaves closure 20 will be suitable for use with any shape profiled filler30. In fact, the vented eaves closure 20 may be used without a profiledfiller 30 at all.

FIG. 12 demonstrates the usefulness of the vented eaves closure 20 ofthe second embodiment for supporting the first course ofsubstantially-flat, low-profile tiles 45 along the eaves 50. Althoughthis second embodiment of the vented eaves closure 20 includes the topgroove 60 and other structural features, it is used here withoutinserting a vented profiled filler 30. In certain applications, where athe low-profile tiles 45 are heavy or in climates where a heavy snowload may be expected, for example, the additional structural strengthand stability of the second embodiment of the vented eaves closure 20may be used, as shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of thesecond embodiment of the vented eaves closure 20, but for use with alow-profile tile 45 as shown in FIG. 12, the eaves closure system 10does not include a vented profiled filler 30. FIG. 13 shows the ventedeaves closure 20 in cross section, without a profiled filler 30.

FIG. 6 provides a closer, perspective view of the eaves closure system10. The vented eaves closure 20 in this embodiment includes a base 22, ariser façade 24, a top groove 60, a rear riser 26, and a skirt 28. Asshown, each of these components are disposed in planar contact with theadjacent component. The vented eaves closure 20 is preferably made froma single sheet of material having an array of openings 90. Preferably,the vented eaves closure 20 is made from a rigid screen or meshed wirefabric to promote ventilation and allow drainage.

The base 22 is placed generally parallel to the roof decking 70 andtypically fastened to the roof decking 70 along the eaves 50. The riserfaçade 24 extends vertically upward from the base 22. Theupwardly-directed top groove 60 is located along the top edge of theriser façade 24. The rear riser 26 extends rearward and down, at anacute angle, toward the base 22. The skirt 28 extends substantiallyparallel to the base 22. The base 22, the riser façade 24, and the rearriser 26 form the structural core of the vented eaves closure 20, whichis generally triangular in cross section. The top groove 60 ispositioned at the top of this generally-triangular core.

The top groove 60 forms a lengthwise, narrow channel havingsubstantially parallel inner sides. The top groove 60 is supported frombehind by a rear riser panel 26 which in one embodiment standssubstantially perpendicular to the roof decking 70, as shown in FIG. 7.The skirt 28 extends nearly to the end of the base 22.

FIG. 6 shows the overall contour of the profiled filler 30 and itsrelation to the vented eaves closure 20. In another aspect of theinvention, the vented profiled filler 30 may include a tongue area 32and a profile area 34. In a preferred embodiment, the tongue area 32 isgenerally rectangular and sized to fit into the top groove 60 along thetop edge of the vented eaves closure 20; preferably, without requiring afastener. The profile area 34 is shaped to closely conform to the bottomprofile or arched space 41 created by the curvature of a high-profileroof tile 40. In one preferred embodiment, the tongue area 32 and theprofile area 34 are part of a single vented profiled filler 30 which isconstructed of a single sheet of material that is permeable to air andwater vapor, and fitted with an array of openings to facilitateventilation.

The profiled filler 30 shown in FIG. 7 can be seen in its insertedposition inside the top groove 60. Like the vented eaves closure 20, theprofiled filler 30 is preferably made from a single sheet of material,such as a rigid or semi-rigid screen or meshed wire fabric, having anarray of openings 90 (not shown) to promote ventilation and allowdrainage.

FIG. 8 shows section 8-8, which is taken through the peak of one of thehigh-profile tiles 40 in FIG. 5. An airflow 92 passes through the ventedeaves closure 20 and the vented profiled filler 30. In this crosssection, the profiled area 34 of the filler 30 can be seen extendingvertically upward to the lower surface of the high-profile roof tiles40. In this aspect, the profiled filler 30 provides complete closure tothe arched spaces 41 beneath the roof tiles 40.

Third Embodiment

A third embodiment of the eaves closure system 10 of the presentinvention is shown in FIG. 9. A vented eaves closure 20 is supportingthe first course of substantially-flat, low-profile tiles 45 along theeaves 50.

FIG. 10 provides a more detailed perspective view of a vented eavesclosure 20 according to the third embodiment. The vented eaves closure20 includes a base 22, a riser façade 24 disposed in planar contact withthe base 22, and may include a rim 25 along the top edge of the riserfaçade 24. The vented eaves closure 20 is preferably made from a singlesheet of material having an array of openings 90. Preferably, the ventedeaves closure 20 is made from a rigid screen or meshed wire fabric topromote ventilation and allow drainage. The riser façade 24 extendsvertically upward from the base 22 and has a sufficient height tosupport the first course of high-profile roof tiles 40 at a desiredangle or pitch. The generally straight edge of the rim 25 matches thesubstantially-flat profile of the low-profile tile 45 and providesclosure to the eaves beneath the tiles.

FIG. 11 shows the vented eaves closure 20 in cross section. An airflow92 passes through the array of openings 90 (not shown) in the ventedeaves closure 20. In a typical application, the roof tiles 45 simplyrest atop the top edge of the riser façade 24 of the vented eavesclosure 20 without requiring an attachment. For certain applications,however, an attachment between one or more tiles and the vented eavesclosure 20 may be preferred or required.

Materials

The material used for the vented eaves closure 20 and the ventedprofiled filler 30 may be permeable to air and water vapor. Openings 90near the base of the closure 20 will allow water to drain freely off theroof decking 70. Other openings 90 in the closure 20 and the filler 30will facilitate air ventilation.

The material used for the closure 20 and the filler 30 may be agalvanized metal, such as aluminum or steel, or it may be a rigid orsemi-rigid plastic or any other material of sufficient strength tosupport the expected load of the roof tiles. In addition, the materialshould be corrosion resistant to corrosion. A metallic material, forexample, may have a baked-on enamel coating.

The vented eaves closure 20 may be made economically from a single sheetof material. Preferably, the closure 20 may be made from a single sheetof semi-rigid screen or meshed wire fabric having an array of openings90 to promote ventilation and allow drainage. Likewise, the ventedprofiled filler 30 is preferably made from a single sheet of material.

The array of openings in a meshed wire fabric is regular and repeatingthroughout the surface of the fabric. The woven wire forms and definesthe openings. In addition to the obvious examples of screen or wirefabric, many other types of materials may contain an array of openings,in a regular and repeating pattern. For example, a solid vented eavesclosure 20 may include an array of narrow slots through one edge of theriser façade 24, repeated in groups of ten every two inches, to form anarray of openings in a repeating pattern. An array of openings invarious patterns can be formed in almost any material.

The array of openings may be configured in any arrangement sufficient toprovide drainage and promote ventilation. In one embodiment, only theriser façade 24 includes openings. In an embodiment where both a ventedeaves closure 20 and a profiled filler 30 are provided, the array ofopenings may pass through both or, alternatively, through the eavesclosure 20 only. Generally, the vented eaves closure 20 must includeopenings because it is positioned against the surface of the roofdecking 70 and underlayment 80, across which draining water flows.

In another embodiment, where the drainage openings are arrayedseparately from the ventilation openings, the drainage openings may passthrough the vented eaves closure 20 only, or through both the eavesclosure 20 and through the profiled filler 30. The ventilation openingsmay pass through both the eaves closure 20 and through the profiledfiller 30 or, alternatively, through the profiled filler 30 only.

The terms rigid and semi-rigid do not mean completely inflexible. When acomponent is described as rigid, it should be understood that thecomponent is generally supporting a weight that requires a certaindegree of stiffness to be safe and durable. The substantially rigidscreen or wire fabrics proposed for the vented eaves closure 20 or thevented profiled filler 30 may, in fact, be flexible enough to allow adesired amount of deformation and shaping when supporting the bottomprofile of a roof tile that is not perfectly uniform.

In another embodiment, the vented eaves closure 20 or the ventedprofiled filler 30 may be extruded or otherwise formed as a continuouslengthwise member. For non-linear lengths of eaves, the closure 20 andthe filler 30 may be sufficiently ductile to be bent in order to conformto different angles and shapes along the eaves 50. The closure 20 andthe filler 30 may have finished and/or sealed ends, where appropriate,and they may have finished ends shaped to allow the joining of severalclosures 20 end-to-end (or several fillers 30 end-to-end).

Method of Fabrication

The vented eaves closure 20 may be fabricated economically by bendingand shaping a single sheet of material according to a pattern. In oneaspect of the invention, a plurality of standard or stock vented eavesclosures 20 may be produced and stored for later use during installationof a certain type of tile. One method of installation a certain tilewould include the step of selecting a vented eaves closure 20 from agroup of stock closures.

In another aspect of the invention, the vented eaves closure 20 selectedfor a particular installation may require additional shaping, in thefield or by hand for example, until it fits the particular space betweenthe eaves 50 and the bottom profile of the tile being installed. In arelated aspect, the production of a plurality of vented eaves closures20 having shapeless or blank riser façades 24 may be useful when shapingthe closure 20 for installation with a unique tile shape required acustom fit.

Likewise, the vented profiled filler 30 may be fabricated economicallyby bending and shaping a single sheet of material according to apattern. In one aspect of the invention, a plurality of standard orstock profiled fillers 30 may be produced and stockpiled for later useduring installation of certain types of tile shapes. One method ofinstallation a certain tile would include the step of selecting a ventedprofiled filler 30 from a group of stock fillers.

In another aspect of the invention, the vented profiled filler 30selected for a particular installation may require additional shaping,in the field or by hand for example, until it fits the particular spacebetween the top edge of the riser façade 24 and the bottom profile ofthe tile being installed. In a related aspect, the production of aplurality of shapeless or blank vented profiled fillers 30 may be usefulwhen installing a unique tile shape that requires a custom-fitted ventedprofiled filler 30.

Although many aspects of the present invention provide uniform anduniversal components and methods to improve the efficiency of a tileroof installation, the invention also encompasses a variety of optionsfor custom-fitting and field shaping where desired.

Ventilation System

In another aspect, the present invention provides a ventilation systemfor a tile roof. In one embodiment, the roof tiles 40 are laid in such amanner atop the vented eaves closure 20 as to facilitate an airflow 92beneath the roof tiles 40. The roof tiles 40 may be supported along theroof deck by a series of battens and counter-battens to createadditional air space beneath the tile 40. The roof may include a ridgevent along the peak of the roof to further facilitate ventilation.

A cavity is formed between the roof decking, the roof tiles, the eaves,and the peak. The array of openings 90 through the eaves closure system10 of the present invention promotes and facilitates air circulationwithin this cavity. In one embodiment, an air mover such as a fan can beadded to actively draw air through the cavity. The air may be drawn inthrough the vented eaves closure system 10 and exhausted through a ridgevent.

FIG. 16 shows a vented eaves closure 20 in use with a system forproviding ventilation to the roof structure beneath the roof decking 70.FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a roof structure that includes aseries of vents 72 positioned between adjacent roof joists. Each vent 72may include a flashing 82 to divert water away from the vent 72. Thevents 72 in this embodiment are positioned between the eaves 50 and thefirst batten 85.

In this system, an airflow 92 passes through the array of openings 90 inthe vented eaves closure 20 and is drawn into the vents 72, where theairflow 92 can ventilate the attic beneath the roof decking 70 and, inone embodiment, be drawn upward by convection forces or by a fan andexhausted near the peak of the roof. In this aspect of the invention,the vented eaves closure 20 makes possible an improved system forventilating an attic space.

It will be appreciated that the present invention provides a ventilatedeaves closure system 10 to support the first course of roof tiles 40along the eaves 50 of a roof at a desired pitch. Water sheds directlythrough the eaves closure system 10 from underneath the roof tiles 40without any appreciable damming or ponding and without the insertion ofany additional openings such as weep holes. Air circulates freelyunderneath the roof tiles 40 and throughout the eaves 50, attic, androof structure 11, reducing the heat transfer into the attic space. Theeaves closure system 10 blocks wind-driven precipitation, inhibits birdnesting, and prevents the invasion of animals through the eaves 50.

It will also be appreciated that the present invention provides aventilated eaves closure apparatus 10 that is flexible and fits avariety of roof tiles 45, 40 having different sizes, shapes, andprofiles.

Although the invention has been described in terms of a preferredembodiment, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatadditions, substitutions, modifications, and deletions not specificallydescribed may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention as defined in the claims.

1. An eaves closure system for a tile roof, the tile roof characterizedby a roof decking, an eaves, and a first course of roof tiles along saideaves, said eaves closure system comprising: a vented eaves closurehaving a base adjacent said eaves and a riser façade extending upwardlyfrom said base and having sufficient height to support said first courseat a desired pitch; and an array of openings through said vented eavesclosure configured to permit drainage and promote ventilation throughsaid eaves closure system.